South Norfolk District Councillor Clayton Hudson is tackling social isolation and giving men greater purpose by forging a new Men’s Shed in Pulham St Mary.
He said: “There were lots of men in the Pulhams that wanted to get involved in local projects, but they didn’t know where to start. The Men’s Shed gives them an ideal opportunity to work together to make a difference to the local community.”
While still in its infancy, the group already has 34 founder members and has held several meetings and two working parties.
Cllr Hudson said: “Some of our members moved here around the time of the pandemic and understandably they’ve struggled to form friendships, but since they’ve been working shoulder to shoulder, they’ve been able to build much stronger bonds that go beyond the casual hello in the street or the pub.”
The group successfully applied for a Go For It Grant from South Norfolk Council which has helped cover the set up costs, and raised an additional £3,000 from its founding members.
It now has ambitious plans to raise a further £15,000 to build a new Shed at South Green Recreation Ground, on the site of a derelict pavilion.
Cllr Hudson added: “There are a lot of men within the local area that have retired but still have a lot to give. This project is bringing us together to create something that will not only benefit the men taking part, but also the wider community.”
If you’d like to get involved, please email mail@thepulhamsmensshed.org.uk or visit thepulhamsmensshed.org.uk
